Canada loses five-set thriller Cuba

IQUITOS, Peru, June 10, 2013 – Canada lost in five sets to Cuba 21-25, 20-25, 25-21, 25-20, 15-13 to open the Pan American Cup women’s volleyball tournament on Monday night.

The Cubans prevailed despite committing 42 unforced errors compared to 25 by Canada. Both teams totaled 14 blocks and the Cubans had the edge 6-5 in aces.

Lisa Barclay led Canada with 13 points followed by Jaimie Thibeault and Kyla Richey with 12 points and Shanice Marcelle with 10.

The 13 countries at the tournament are also battling for six spots at next year’s FIVB Grand Prix. Canada is in Group B with the Cubans, Peru and Costa Rica.

“This is a very important tournament for us because we are bringing a very young team and for many of the girls this is their first international event,” said Canada’s head coach arnd Ludwig. “We have prepared well and the last seven weeks were very intense. Our goal is to get back into the world’s top 15 and this Pan American Cup could be the first step in that direction.”

Canada faces Peru on Tuesday and Costa Rica on Wednesday. The quarterfinals are Friday, the semis on Saturday and final on Sunday,